The target remains a debut in 2025 with a customer Renault power unit, while it awaits a decision from FOM on its plans. The longer-term plan is to have a Cadillac V6 in the back of the car by 2028.
With no official word from F1 on a potential entry, the team has still had to push ahead with its programme on the basis that it cannot afford to wait.
The fact that it is already hard at work in the design office and wind tunnel is also a signal of intent, and a demonstration that this is a serious project with proper financial backing behind it.
It’s also a complex undertaking that will see the team operating from four sites in three countries.
Splitting departments between countries is nothing new, and it’s a strategy currently undertaken by Haas and the recently renamed RB team, for example.
However, Michael Andretti’s plans are particularly ambitious. The race team and design departments will be based at Silverstone, the aero guys will use the Toyota wind tunnel in Cologne, and simulations, vehicle dynamics and R&D will be undertaken at the GM Motorsports facility in Charlotte.
When Andretti Global’s huge new base in the Indianapolis suburb of Fishers is completed, it will become the home for manufacturing, which in the interim will be conducted by outside suppliers.
A racing team is also about people. Andretti has been actively recruiting F1 veterans, including some who had recently spent time on similar start-up projects that didn't make it through the FIA entry process.